Shrinking of Renuka Lake concerns Himachal locals

Sirmour (Himachal Pradesh), Apr 29 (ANI): People in Himachal Pradesh's Sirmour District are very concerned over the shrinking of the state's Renuka Lake.

Many feel the lake's shrinking would affect business, as the area is a major tourist spot.

"A lot of tourists come here to see the natural beauty of this lake. In case it dries up, the business which is generated by this lake will also come to an end," said Sandeep Sharma, a local photographer.

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Prem Kumar Dhumal has said steps are being taken to protect the lake, beginning with a ban on plastic bags.

"In order to protect it, we have banned the plastic bags as wherever there is a river or a lake, people throw plastic bags. This ban should preserve the lake. The society and the government should come together to take the initiative," said Prem Kumar Dhumal.

Renuka Lake is seen as an embodiment of the Goddess Renuka. It is the largest natural lake in the state, and is shrinking due to silt deposition and dumping of waste materials. (ANI)